MEDIA KIT

Artistic Director Li CunxinMEDIA KITPrincipal partner

01 MEDIA KITBEAUTIFUL BREATHTAKINGCOPPÉLIAwith The Camarata of St John’sconducted by Andrew MogreliaChoreographed by Greg Horsman24 April – 10 May, QPAC Playhouse(13 performances)Sir Kenneth MacMillan’sROMEO & JULIETwith the Queensland Symphony Orchestraconducted by Andrew MogreliaChoreographed by Sir Kenneth Macmillan27 June – 5 July, QPAC Lyric Theatre(8 performances)THE NUTCRACKERwith the Queensland Symphony Orchestraconducted by Andrew Mogrelia12 – 20 December, QPAC Playhouse(9 performances)DANCE DIALOGUESSummer20 February – 8 MarchSpring30 October – 13 NovemberThomas Dixon Centre, West End(14 performances per season)FLOURISHGeorge Balanchine’s SerenadeNicolo Fonte’s BoleroNils Christe’s Short DialoguesBen Stevenson’s La Esmeralda grand pas de deuxCINDERELLAQueensland Regional Tour13 September – 15 October(eight regional venues)1 – 9 August, QPAC Playhouse(10 performances)

02 MEDIA KITMEDIA RELEASEStrictly embargoed to 2pm Monday 30 September, 2013Queensland Ballet presents beautiful,breathtaking ballet in 2014Artistic Director Li Cunxin has assembled a collection ofworld-class choreographers, artists and designers fromaround the globe for Queensland Ballet’s Season 2014.The Company’s mainstage season includes threebeautiful, breathtaking ballets: the world premièreof Greg Horsman’s brand new Coppélia in April;the Australian première of Sir Kenneth MacMillan’siconic Romeo & Juliet in June; and the return ofBen Stevenson’s magical The Nutcracker in December.Li Cunxin is very excited about his second season forQueensland Ballet: “Season 2014 will showcase ourCompany and this beautiful art form at its very best.”The centrepiece of Season 2014 will be Sir KennethMacMillan’s acclaimed ballet, Romeo & Juliet. Withinternational ballet stars Tamara Rojo, Carlos Acostaand Steven McRae performing alongside the Company’stalented ensemble of dancers, this magnificentproduction will honour MacMillan’s creative genius.Li is thrilled that Queensland Ballet will be the firstAustralian company to present MacMillan’s celebratedwork, widely considered the best Romeo & Juliet inthe world.“It is an incredible coup for Queensland to secure thisexclusive production of Sir Kenneth MacMillan’s Romeo& Juliet. This super-star production will attract world-wideattention, placing Queensland Ballet on the global stage.”In August, the Company will present a mixed program,Flourish. Li has selected ballets that show how masterfulchoreographers can communicate an idea as easilyas a story: George Balanchine’s Serenade; Nicolo Fonte’sBolero; Nils Christe’s Short Dialogues; andBen Stevenson’s La Esmeralda grand pas de deux.Audiences will also have the opportunity to enjoy newdance works from exciting young choreographers andexperience the process of rehearsal in Dance Dialogues.The two seasons will be held in an intimate studio theatreat the Company’s home, the Thomas Dixon Centre.The Queensland Symphony Orchestra will playProkofiev’s Romeo & Juliet and Tchaikovsky’sThe Nutcracker, and The Camerata of St John’s willperform Delibes’s Coppélia, conducted by MusicDirector and Principal Conductor Andrew Mogrelia.Arts Minister Ian Walker says: “The State Government isa proud and long-term supporter of Queensland Ballet,and we are delighted to enable the Brisbane exclusiveseason of Romeo & Juliet as a highlight of its 2014 season.“Romeo & Juliet is the first project to be funded throughthe Super Star Fund, which will provide $3 million overfour years to support local performing arts companiesto feature internationally renowned artists in productionsexclusive to Queensland.“We promised to bring international stars toQueensland, and we are delivering on that promise.”After a sell-out season in 2013, Li is confident nextyear’s season will be just as popular. “Season 2014’sstellar program is likely to sell out, so the best way toguarantee your seats is to become a season ticket holder.”Queensland Ballet’s season ticket packages are nowon sale and are the best way to see ballet in 2014.Season ticket holders can choose just two or up to sixproductions; can save over 25% off regular ticket prices;access priority booking; and behind-the-scenes newsand events.Regional Queensland is also in for a treat in 2014.The Company is taking Ben Stevenson’s sell-outCinderella to eight regional venues in September andOctober: Toowoomba, Gold Coast, Cairns, Townsville,Mackay, Maryborough, Rockhampton and Gladstone.MEDIA ENQUIRIESPublicist & Digital Content ProducerNatasha SpongP 07 3013 6623 M 0424 202 147E nspong@queenslandballet.com.au

03 MEDIA KITCoppélia24 April – 10 MayA beautiful, life-like doll andtwo bickering young loverscreate comic chaos in thiscaptivating ballet.Jealous of her sweetheart Franz’s interest inDoctor Coppélius’s mysterious ‘daughter’,Swanilda sneaks into his house to confronther rival. But all is not as it seems – and whenthe doctor discovers Franz is another intruder,delightful mayhem follows.Setting the much-loved story in the smallSouth Australian town of Hahndorf in the late19th century, choreographer Greg Horsmanhas created a touching and witty ballet, withendearing characters inspired by our ownhistory. With its joyful dance and the charmingmusic of Léo Delibes, Coppélia will enchantpeople of all ages.Choreographer Greg Horsman,after Arthur Saint-Léon and Marius PetipaComposer Léo DelibesWith the Camerata of St. John’sConductor Andrew MogreliaWorld premièreVenuePlayhouse, QPACDates & TimeSThursday 24 April7.30pmSaturday 26 April 1.30pm Class7.30pmTuesday 29 April 6.30pm Q&AWednesday 30 April 7.30pmFriday 2 May7.30pmSaturday 3 May7.30pmTuesday 6 May 6.30pm Q&AWednesday 7 May 12.30pm Q&AThursday 8 May7.30pmFriday 9 May7.30pmSaturday 10 May 1.30pm Class, Audio-described7.30pmSingle ticket pricesAdult $90Concession $8030 yrs & under $60Child $50Family (2 Adults, 2 Children) $240An additional transaction fee of $6.20 applies.A co-production of Queensland Ballet and West Australian Ballet.

04 MEDIA KITlaughter & delightful mayhemFROM ARTISTIC DIRECTOR LI CUNXIN“I first performed the role of Franz in Ronald Hynd’sCoppélia. It’s a traditional classical ballet, and while thework has an incredible sense of humour, it also has dramaand emotion which people can relate to. The dancing isbeautiful and elegant, and Delibes’s score is stunning.It was a pleasure to commission Greg Horsman, ourBallet Master, to create a new Coppélia for us. We arevery lucky to have such a talented choreographer inour midst. Greg will bring his flair for choreographingclassical-style ballet to this traditional work, and hisdistinctly Australian scenario is perfectly suited to thedelightful story.What really appeals to me about Coppélia is that it’s aballet the whole family can enjoy. Audiences will leavethe theatre feeling uplifted and entertained by beautifuldancing and music.”THE HISTORYCoppélia is a comic ballet originally choreographedby Arthur Sain-Léon to the music of Leo Delibes.The libretto by Charles Nuitter was based upon twostories by ETA Hoffmann: Der Sandmann (The Sandman)and Die Puppe (The Doll).Premièring on 25 May 1870 at the Théâtre Impériall’Opéra, its initial success was interrupted by theFranco-Prussian War and the siege of Paris. It eventuallybecame the most-performed ballet at the Opéra.THE CHOREOGRAPHERGREG HORSMANGreg Horsman joined The Australian Ballet in 1982,rising to Principal Artist in 1987. During his 12 years withthe company, Greg danced the entire classical repertoire.He has been a guest Principal Artist with the Kirov Balletand Royal Danish Ballet, among others. In 1994, Gregjoined English National Ballet (ENB), creating principalroles and starring in productions at Royal Albert Hall.In 1998 Greg was appointed Artistic Director of BalletCentral at London’s Central School of Ballet. In 2001he joined Northern Ballet Theatre in Leeds as BalletMaster, and in 2003 returned to ENB as Ballet Masterand Répétiteur. In 2006 Greg became Ballet Masterat Royal New Zealand Ballet (RNZB). He has been aguest teacher at many international companies. Greghas choreographed ballets for Ballet Central, ENB andRNZB, where The Sleeping Beauty in 2011 won wideacclaim. Greg joined Queensland Ballet as Ballet Masterin 2013. Queensland Ballet audiences first glimpsedGreg’s talents in Verdi Variations in Elegance, theCompany’s 2013 mixed program. He also createda new work, One More Breath, for the Dance Dialogues– Spring season.

05 MEDIA KITSir Kenneth MacMillan’sromeo& juliet27 June – 5 JulyShakespeare’s tragic taleof star-cross’d lovers istold through breathtaking,glorious dance inSir Kenneth MacMillan’s iconicproduction of Romeo & Juliet.Queensland Ballet is honoured to be the firstcompany in Australia to present this celebratedwork of 20th century dance.With dazzling guest stars Tamara Rojo,Carlos Acosta and Steven McRae, also in thecast for selected performances are acclaimedAustralian Ballet Principal Artist, Daniel Gaudiello,as Mercutio and former Principal, StevenHeathcote, as Lord Capulet.MacMillan’s Romeo & Juliet is a magnificentand grand production, but the very human storyat its heart is told with extraordinary intimacy.Whether in a lethal marketplace brawl or theblissful balcony pas de deux, the realistic anddaring choreography resounds with rawemotional truth.Celebrating the 450th anniversary ofShakespeare’s play and the 50th anniversaryof the creation of this ballet, Romeo & Julietwill be a superlative, not-to-be missed, event.Choreographer Sir Kenneth MacMillanComposer Sergei ProkofievWith the Queensland Symphony OrchestraConductor Andrew MogreliaDesigner Paul AndrewsLighting Designer John B ReadBirmingham Royal BalletHead of Scenic Presentation Doug NicholsonCostume Supervisor Michael BrownAustralian premièreVenueLyric Theatre, QPACDates & TimeSFriday 27 June 7.30pm opening GalaTamara RojoSaturday 28 JuneTuesday 1 JulyWednesday 2 JulyThursday 3 JulyFriday 4 July6.30pmTamara Rojo6.30pm7.30pmSteven McRae7.30pmCarlos Acosta7.30pmSteven McRaeSaturday 5 July 1.30pm Class,7.30pmCarlos AcostaAudio-Described, Q&Asingle ticket pricesCasting correct at time of printing. Queensland Ballet reservesthe right to change the cast without prior notice if necessary.This production is produced in association with Birmingham RoyalBallet. This initiative is supported by Arts Queensland through theSuper Star Fund, a Queensland Government program that deliverssuper star performances exclusive to the state.Adult $80 – $130Concession $70 – $11530 yrs & under $55 – $85Child $45 – $75An additional transaction fee of $6.20 applies.

06 MEDIA KITA pair of star-cross’d loversFROM ARTISTIC DIRECTOR LI CUNXIN“When I watched a live broadcast of American BalletTheatre’s production of MacMillan’s Romeo & Juliet onTV, I remember thinking that if I could dance this ballet,it would be a dream come true. Unfortunately I neverdid have that opportunity, but I am so happy to make ourQueensland Ballet dancers’ dreams come true instead.It’s a story that makes us reflect, and will touch everyonewho sees it. With so many conflicts in today’s world,it gives us a valuable lesson. People who see this balletwill never forget it.Presenting a work of this scale, with acclaimedinternational guest stars, has been made possibly onlythrough the support of the Queensland Government’sSuper Star Fund, a collaboration with BirminghamRoyal Ballet and the generosity of Lady DeborahMacMillan. Her believe in our Company’s ability todo justice to her late husband’s masterpiece is bothhumbling and uplifting.”THE CHOREOGRAPHERSIR KENNETH MACMILLANSir Kenneth MacMillan created more than 60 ballets,including five full-length works, during a career ofremarkable creativity. As well as his long associationwith The Royal Ballet as Director and PrincipalChoreographer, he also created ballets in Stuttgart,served as Director of Ballet at the Deutsche Oper Balletin Berlin and was Artistic Associate of American BalletTheatre and Houston Ballet.Creating Romeo & Juliet in less than five months,MacMillan’s approach to choreography and characterisationwas a revolutionary update to the genre of narrative ballet.He worked in close collaboration with Principals LynnSeymour and Christopher Gable, on whom the ballet wasmade, however Rudolf Nureyev and Margot Fonteyndanced in the première performance on 9 February 1965.When the curtain came down, the enraptured audiencedemanded a legendary 43 curtain calls.ROMEO & JULIET GUEST STARSTAMARA ROJOTamara Rojo is Artistic Director of the EnglishNational Ballet, and until recently, was a Principal withThe Royal Ballet, during which time she frequentlyperformed as Guest Principal with all major balletcompanies throughout the world. Tamara’s reputationas an exceptional artist and exponent of the classicalrepertoire has been forged during countlessperformances of great beauty. She is acclaimed for herremarkable technique and intense emotional connectionwith her roles.CARLOS ACOSTAA Cuban-born dancer of Spanish and African heritage,Carlos Acosta has danced with many esteemed dancecompanies, including English National Ballet, NationalBallet of Cuba, Houston Ballet and American BalletTheatre. Joining The Royal Ballet in 1998, he wasappointed Principal Guest Artist in 2003, allowing himto accommodate a growing schedule of internationalguest appearances. With his celebrated grace, powerand athleticism, Carlos is one of the most influentialand admired dancers of our time.STEVEN MCRAEAustralian-born, Steven McRae was appointed aPrincipal at The Royal Ballet in 2009 and has workedwith many choreographers, including Christopher Bruce,Wayne McGregor, Alexei Ratmansky and ChristopherWheeldon. Renowned for his dazzling technique, Stevenhas been a guest artist at American Ballet Theatre,The Bolshoi Ballet and The Australian Ballet, andperformed around the world in many international galas.

07 MEDIA KITflourish1 – 9 AugustThese astounding and starklybeautiful dance worksreveal the many expressivepossibilities of dance.Serenade, one of legendary choreographerGeorge Balanchine’s earliest works, is a milestonein the history of dance. As fresh and illuminatingnow as when it was created in 1934, this iconicwork re-shaped classical ballet into poeticgeometry with a drifting, swirling ensemble,awash with beauty and bathed in light.Short Dialogues brought people to theirfeet when it premièred in Queensland Ballet’sInternational Gala 2011. A provoking glimpseinto three couples’ relationships, Nils Christe’schoreography is fast, sharp and perfectly matchedto Philip Glass’s pulsing score. Another work ofrecent times, Nicolo Fonte’s Bolero steadily buildsto the famous rhythm of Ravel’s rising orchestralmusic. Fonte’s precise, athletic choreographycaptures the escalating intensity of the music,culminating in an exuberant finale.In contrast, the grand pas de deux fromLa Esmeralda is a gem from the classical era.Adapting Marius Petipa’s revival of the originalwork by Jules Perrot, Ben Stevenson has createda thrilling showpiece of bravura technique.SerenadeChoreographer George BalanchineComposer Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky(Serenade for Strings in C major)Short DialoguesChoreographer Nils ChristeComposer Philip Glass (Concerto for Violin and Orchestra)La Esmeralda grand pas de deuxChoreographer Ben Stevenson OBE, after Marius PetipaComposer Cesare Pugni (La Esmeralda)BoleroChoreographer Nicolo FonteComposer Maurice Ravel (Bolero)VenuePlayhouse, QPACDates & TimeSFriday 1 August7.30pmSaturday 2 August 1.30pm Class7.30pmTuesday 5 August 6.30pm Q&AWednesday 6 August 12.30pm Q&A7.30pmThursday 7 August 7.30pmFriday 8 August7.30pmSaturday 9 August 1.30pm Class7.30pmsingle ticket pricesAdult $90Concession $8030 yrs & under $60Child $50An additional transaction fee of $6.20 applies.

08 MEDIA KITbold, daring danceFROM ARTISTIC DIRECTOR LI CUNXIN“I’m very excited about 2014’s mixed program,Flourish. It features work from some of the bestchoreographers in the world and will deepen ouraudience’s understanding of this beautiful art form.I was keen to introduce one of George Balanchine’smost celebrated works to the Company’s repertoire,and our dancers are ideally suited to his graceful, lyricalstyle. In contrast, the works of Nicolo Fonte and NilsChriste are informed by a contemporary aesthetic,and each is an athletic tour-de-force.Including a famous classical pas de deux, choreographedby Ben Stevenson after Marius Petipa, is my way ofreminding us of ballet’s remarkable heritage.Our versatile dancers will shine in these diverseshort ballets, each requiring demanding technique.”

09 MEDIA KITthe Nutcracker12 – 20 DecemberWelcome the holiday seasonwith this beloved and magicalChristmas tale.When midnight strikes, young Clara’s enchantedChristmas gift leads her into a wondrous world...with the valiant Nutcracker at her side, Claradefeats King Rat and his giant mice, and journeysto the Land of Snow and the Kingdom of Sweets.There, the Sugar Plum Fairy bids everyone todance in her honour.Ben Stevenson’s acclaimed production ofThe Nutcracker is a sheer delight, with sparklingdance and stunning sets and costumes that bringa host of fanciful characters to life.The Nutcracker is the perfect festivecelebration for the whole family.Choreographer Ben Stevenson OBEComposer Pyotr Ilyich TchaikovskyWith the Queensland Symphony OrchestraConductor Andrew MogreliaVenuePlayhouse, QPACDates & TimesFriday 12 DecemberSaturday 13 December7.30pm1.30pm7.30pmTuesday 16 December 1.30pm Q&A7.30pmThursday 18 December 7.30pmFriday 19 December 7.30pmSaturday 20 December 1.30pm Audio-Described7.30pmsingle ticket pricesAdult $90Concession $8030 yrs & under $60Child $50Family $240An additional transaction fee of $6.20 applies.

10 MEDIA KITfamily christmas traditionFROM ARTISTIC DIRECTOR LI CUNXIN“I want The Nutcracker to be a festive family tradition inBrisbane, as it is in many other cities around the world.It’s the perfect Christmas ballet for young and oldto enjoy together, and walk away having experiencedsomething magical.Not only will this beautiful ballet enchant audiences,it gives our dancers the opportunity to shine in BenStevenson’s charming and technically challengingchoreography for a host of fairytale characters.”THE HISTORYThe Nutcracker is a two-act ballet, originallychoreographed by Marius Petipa and Lev Ivanov,with a score by Pyotr Ilyich Tchaikovsky. The librettois adapted from ETA Hoffmann’s story The Nutcrackerand the Mouse King. It premiered at the MariinskyTheatre in St. Petersburg on 18 December 1892.Although the original production was not a success,the short orchestral suite that Tchaikovsky extractedfrom the ballet score found instant public appeal.The complete Nutcracker ballet has enjoyed enormouspopularity since the late 1960s and is now performedby countless ballet companies across the world,primarily during the Christmas season.THE CHOREOGRAPHERBEN STEVENSONBen Stevenson served as Artistic Director ofHouston Ballet from 1976-2003, raising thecompany to an internationally acclaimed ensemble.Born in England, Ben appeared with Sadler’s WellsRoyal Ballet and English National Ballet where, as aPrincipal Dancer, he performed leading roles in allthe classics. In 1967, English National Ballet askedhim to stage his first production, The Sleeping Beauty,which starred Margot Fonteyn. In 1968, he wasinvited to direct the newly formed Harkness YouthDancers in New York, and in 1971, he joined theNational Ballet in Washington DCas co-director.Ben has received numerous awards for hischoreography, including gold medals at theInternational Ballet Competitions of 1972, 1982,and 1986. In 2003, he was appointed ArtisticDirector Emeritus of Houston Ballet, and thecompany’s affiliated school was renamed HoustonBallet’s Ben Stevenson Academy. In 2003,Ben assumed the artistic directorship of TexasBallet Theater.

11 MEDIA KITdance dialoguesSummer 20 February – 8 Marchspring 30 October – 13 NovemberJoin the Company in its homefor this relaxed and intimatedance experience.In the Thomas Dixon Centre studio, where ourCompany practises daily, you will witness theprocess of rehearsal as Artistic staff coach thedancers in excerpts of repertoire for upcomingperformances. Also, be the first to experience newworks created by emerging choreographers, amongthem Tim Podesta and Queensland Ballet PrincipalDancer, Matthew Lawrence.SUMMER20 February – 8 MarchVenueThomas Dixon Centre, West EndDates & TimesThursday 20 FebruaryFriday 21 FebruarySaturday 22 FebruaryTuesday 25 FebruaryWednesday 26 FebruaryThursday 27 FebruaryFriday 28 FebruarySaturday 1 MarchWednesday 5 MarchFriday 7 MarchSaturday 8 March7.30pm7.30pm1.30pm, 7.30pm6.30pm7.30pm7.30pm7.30pm1.30pm, 7.30pm12.30pm (schools only)7.30pm1.30pm, 7.30pmSpring30 October – 13 NovemberVenueThomas Dixon Centre, West EndDates & TimesThursday 30 OctoberFriday 31 OctoberSaturday 1 NovemberTuesday 4 NovemberWednesday 5 NovemberThursday 6 NovemberFriday 7 NovemberSaturday 8 NovemberTuesday 11 NovemberWednesday 12 NovemberThursday 13 November7.30pm7.30pm1.30pm, 7.30pm6.30pm7.30pm7.30pm7.30pm1.30pm, 7.30pm6.30pm1.30pm, 7.30pm7.30pmSingle ticket pricesAll tickets $50An additional transaction fee of $6.20 applies.New dance works created for Dance Dialogues are supportedby the Queensland Ballet Choreography Fund.

12 MEDIA KITStep closerFROM ARTISTIC DIRECTOR LI CUNXIN“With Dance Dialogues, I continue to indulge my passionto nurture emerging choreographic talent, and to sharesome of the intricacies of the craft of ballet with you.This studio series is a wonderful opportunity foraudiences to see their Company up close, in a relaxedsetting, and learn more about this beautiful art formfrom myself, other creatives and Artistic staff.”

13 MEDIA KITQUEENSLAND REGIONAL TOURcinderella13 September – 15 OctoberFollowing a sold-outBrisbane season, our beautifulCinderella is set to spreada little magic in regionalQueensland in 2014.Given a glittering gown by her FairyGodmother, Cinderella travels to theroyal ball in a miraculous pumpkin coach.Making a dazzling entrance, she capturesthe attention of all and the heart of thePrince. Yet her beautiful dream must endat midnight, and in her haste to depart, sheleaves one jewelled slipper behind…From the antics of the UglyStepsisters to the beauty of the wedding pasde deux, Ben Stevenson’s classic productionof Cinderella will entertain and charm adultsand children alike.Choreographer Ben Stevenson OBEComposer Sergei ProkofievDates, Times & VenuesToowoombaSaturday 13 SeptemberEmpire Theatre1.30pm, 7.30pmGold CoastSaturday 20 September 1.30pm, 7pmThe Arts Centre Gold CoastCairnsFriday 26 September 7.30pmSaturday 27 September 1.30pmCairns Civic TheatreTownsvilleWednesday 1 October 7pmTownsville Civic TheatreMackaySaturday 4 October 7pmMackay Entertainment & Convention CentreMaryboroughWednesday 8 October 7pmThe Brolga TheatreRockhamptonSaturday 11 October 7.30pmPilbeam TheatreGladstoneWednesday 15 October 7pmGladstone Entertainment CentreVisit queenslandballet.com.au for regional tourbooking information.The 2014 tour of Cinderella is supported by the QueenslandGovernment’s Playing Fund – Boost to Touring.

14 MEDIA KITdreams do come trueFROM ARTISTIC DIRECTOR LI CUNXIN“Cinderella holds a special place in my heart.Ben Stevenson’s production was one of the first balletsthat I saw when I went to the West. I had tears in myeyes as I watched it – not only is the music beautiful,but the story is full of magic and joy. Fairytales embodythe hopes of people, and offer wise insights intohuman nature.I’m delighted to bring this magical and extraordinaryballet to regional audiences.”THE HISTORYThe best known version in Western cultures appearedin a collection of tales written by Charles Perraultin 1697. The earliest known ballet was presented in1913 in Vienna.Many ballets have been choreographed on this tale,but one of the most frequently staged productionsin modern times is Ben Stevenson’s interpretation.Prokofiev wrote the music for this ballet between1940 and 1944. It came after his other great balletscore, Romeo & Juliet, written in the 1930s. Prokofiev’smelodic invention is a great feature of the work, andthe music is scored for a large orchestra. There arealso three suites for orchestra which the composerauthorised for use in concert.

15 MEDIA KITdiscover moreABOUT QUEENSLAND BALLETQueensland Ballet is a vibrant, creative companywhich connects people and dance across Queensland.Season 2014 is the second season under theartistic direction of Li Cunxin. An internationallyacclaimed ballet dancer and author of the best-sellingautobiography, Mao’s Last Dancer, Li Cunxin leads anensemble of dedicated and highly accomplished,classically-trained dancers.We offer a program of world-class productions of thebest classical ballets and inspired contemporary danceworks, engaging renowned choreographers and designersfrom around the world. The Company also nurturesemerging local talent, showcasing exciting new works inthe Dance Dialogues studio series.Each year, Queensland Ballet presents up to70 performances in Brisbane and tours to regionalQueensland. The excellent facilities at the Company’shome in the Thomas Dixon Centre in Brisbane’sWest End allow us to offer a full range of training andcommunity access programs, including public danceclasses. We are committed to providing a pathway foryoung talent through our Pre-Professional and JuniorPrograms, as well as in the Queensland Dance Schoolof Excellence, a program offered in partnership withEducation Queensland.Queensland Ballet is dedicated to the pursuit of artisticexcellence, dance education and innovative presentationof classical repertoire. With bold and confident ambitionsfor the future, we proudly build upon the legacy of manycreative and gifted artists who have been part of theCompany’s rich 53-year history.Discover more about QueenslandBallet and our backstage world.Here are a few ways you can getto know us better:Post-performance Q&AAfter selected performances at QPAC, a panel of creativeartists and dancers discusses aspects of the ballet you’vejust seen.Pre-performanceCompany ClassPatrons at select matinee performances at QPAC arewelcome to watch our dancers take their daily warm-upclass on stage.Information EveningsSeason ticket holders will be invited to exclusiveinformation evenings before a production opens. Hear allabout the process of bringing a ballet to the stage directlyfrom those who are creating it.ROMEO & JULIET OPENINGNIGHT GALAPurchase tickets to this special event, which includespre and post-performance hospitality at the BrisbaneConvention and Exhibition Centre, for $100 per person.Storytellers in the FoyerBefore performances of Coppélia and The Nutcracker(excluding opening nights), storytellers will read theseclassic tales to children, so they enter the theatre full ofexpectation and excitement.Complimentary ProgramsInformative, keepsake programs are distributedfree-of-charge at all performances.

16 MEDIA KITCLASSESadult danceclassesDance can offer physical andsocial benefits to people of allages. at Queensland Ballet, weoffer dance classes to ensurethat you can reap the rewards.We offer weekly classes in ballet, Pilates andcontemporary dance for anyone aged from 16 yearsto mature adults. With the focus on fun, all classes aredesigned to increase fitness, flexibility and co-ordinationin a friendly and relaxed environment.Research suggests that dance can also improvecognitive performance and reaction times, making it auseful treatment for a number of conditions, includingarthritis, dementia, depression and Parkinson’s Disease(PD). Queensland Ballet has introduced Dance forParkinson’s with the support of Parkinson’s Queensland,Dance for PD specialist, Erica Rose Jeffrey, and DavidLeventhal from the Mark Morris Dance Group (NewYork). Anyone affected by Parkinson’s, their carers,partners and friends, are all welcome to participate.For more information and the dance classestimetable, visit queenslandballet.com.au orphone 07 3013 6666.school & studioprogramsWe love to connect people ofall ages with dance. with youngpeople in mind, we have createdsome highly enjoyable activitiesfor students.Our EdSquad introduces young people to dance througha series of creative workshops in schools. Ballet, creativemovement and repertoire workshops are designed to deliverfun, safe, and inspiring dance experiences for all ages andabilities. During Terms 2 and 3 in 2014, thesehighly engaging dance experiences will be offeredat low-cost in Brisbane, the Gold Coast and SunshineCoast, and free-of-charge in Cairns, Townsville, Mackay,Rockhampton, Gladstone, Maryborough, and Toowoomba.To encourage students to experience dancein performance, school and studio groups are offeredreduced ticket prices (*$25 per student,1 teacher free per 10 students). Curriculum-relevantbackground material is supplied to teachers in advance,and a Q&A session for students is held after theperformance. Schools with limited resources may apply toparticipate in our Pas de Deux Program, which providescomplimentary access for students and their teachers.Private dance studios in Brisbane may join ourAdopt-a-Dancer program, and form a very specialconnection with a professional dancer who sharesexpertise and friendship in a workshop, and throughpersonal correspondence.Discover how to learn more and experience thejoy of dance with us at queenslandballet.com.au or emaillearn@queenslandballet.com.au.For school bookings to performances in Brisbane,phone the Qtix School Group Hotline on 07 3840 7127.* Available for Brisbane performances only. Excludes all Dance Dialogues performancesother than Wednesday 5 March. Additional $14 transaction fee applies.

17 MEDIA KITtraining programsDeveloping the artists of thefuture plays an importantrole in Queensland Ballet’scommitment to excellence.Queensland Ballet offers two well-established trainingprograms for students from 11 years of age, supervisedby Artistic Director, Li Cunxin and Director of Training,Christian Tátchev. Annual auditions to enter theprograms attract a large number of applicants.The Pre-Professional Program is a full-timeprogram which aims to give students the finalpreparation and training they require before joining aprofessional ballet company. Students work intensivelywith Artistic staff to develop their skills to the highestartistic and technical standards. They take classesin classical ballet, pointe work, pas de deux, maletechnique, repertoire, contemporary dance, drama/mime, body conditioning and Pilates. Performanceopportunities are also offered when possible.The Junior Program is designed to supplement thetraining that talented young dance students receive fromcommunity dance studios and teachers. Junior studentsattend a weekly class, and are given first considerationfor juvenile roles in Queensland Ballet productions.In addition, the Ballet Program in the QueenslandDance School of Excellence (QDSE) operates inpartnership with Queensland Ballet and the QueenslandGovernment’s Department of Education and Trainingthrough Kelvin Grove State College. This unique programgives talented students the opportunity to pursue eliteballet training while completing face-to-face senioracademic studies.Launching in 2014, Queensland Ballet’s SummerSchool is a six-day training course that aims to furtherthe essential skills of ballet students aged between 11 and18 years. Held in January, young dancers will have theopportunity to work under the guidance of QueenslandBallet’s Artistic staff and guest teachers.For more information on our training programs,go to queenslandballet.com.au or emailtraining@queenslandballet.com.au.

18 MEDIA KITour partners& supportersGovernmentQueensland Ballet receives financialassistance from the QueenslandGovernment through Arts Queensland.Queensland Ballet is assisted by the CommonwealthGovernment through the Australia Council for the Arts,its arts funding advisory body.principal partnerSeason 2014 PhotographyCreative Direction: DesignfrontPhotography: Harold DavidStyling: Peter Simon PhilipsMake-up: Amber D, Senior Artist M . A . CHair: Kimberley Forbes for O&MCover: Meng NingningPage 1: Rachael WalshPages 3 & 4: Clare MorehenPages 5 & 6: Rachael Walsh & Matthew LawrencePages 7 & 8: Meng Ningning, Clare Morehen & Nathan SciclunaPages 9 & 10: Hao Bin & Meng NingningPages 11 & 12: (standing, l to r) Matthew Lawrence,Lisa Edwards, Li Cunxin, Natasha Kusch, Yu Hui; (kneeling, l to r)Rachael Walsh, Clare Morehen; (seated, l to r) Nathan Scicluna,Meng Ningning, Hao BinPages 13 & 14: Rachael Walsh & Yu Hui (Photography:Alexia Sinclair; Art Direction: Alexia Sinclair and Designfront)Page 15: Company Dancers (Photography: David Kelly)Page 16: School workshop with Ed Squad(Photography: Sarah Granholm)Page 17: Pre-Professional Program Students(Photography: Christian Aas)Page 19: Clare Morehen & Matthew LawrenceQueensland BalletPatron Her Excellency Ms Penelope Wensley ACGovernor of QueenslandBoard Brett Clark (Chair), David Thomas (Deputy Chair),Winna Brown, Dawid Falck, Peter Godber,Margaret Lucas OAM, Catriona Mordant,Assoc. Prof. Gene Moyle, Amanda TalbotArtistic Director Li CunxinChief Executive Officer Anna Marsdenmajor partnersSeason Partnerssupport Partnerscreative PartnersThe Thomas Dixon CentreCnr Drake Street & Montague RoadWest End QLD 4101PO Box 3791, South Brisbane QLD 4101Phone (bookings): 136 246Phone (administration): 07 3013 6666Fax: 07 3013 6600Email: mail@queenslandballet.com.auqueenslandballet.com.auFacebookTwitterOfficial SuppliersAugustine’s on George, French Flowers, M . A . C, Theme & Variations,Through the Looking Glass, Veracity Business Solutions, Yellow Cabs (Qld)Queensland Ballet is very grateful to the Artistic Director’s Circle, Charles LisnerCircle, Benefactors, Dancers’ Circle, Queensland Ballet Friends and many generousindividuals, trusts and foundations, for their support.For information about how to become more involved with Queensland Ballet, pleasecontact us on 07 3013 6658 or email development@queenslandballet.com.au.

MEDIA ENQUIRIESPublicist & Digital Content ProducerNatasha SpongP 07 3013 6623 M 0424 202 147E nspong@queenslandballet.com.au